Mozilla has recently raised concerns regarding an impending change in Windows 11 26H2 that may affect users’ default browser choices. While the company’s apprehensions are valid, it is important to acknowledge that Firefox has, in some respects, fallen behind in terms of feature richness.
Feature Developments in Browsers
For instance, Firefox has only just introduced HDR support, nearly a decade after its competitors, Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome. This update allows users to enjoy HDR content on platforms like YouTube, marking a significant milestone for the browser. With the new release cadence, redesign, and roadmap, there is hope that Firefox will adopt new features at a faster pace.
In an unexpected twist, Microsoft Edge has managed to maintain a considerable advantage over Google Chrome in terms of media features, despite both browsers being built on Google’s Chromium engine. Back in 2016, Microsoft announced 4K support for Netflix on Edge, a feat that many might not have anticipated would take Chrome so long to achieve. This situation mirrors another notable security feature that Google Chrome has yet to implement, which has been available in other browsers for years.
Recently, Google joined Microsoft in the ranks of officially supported browsers for Netflix in Ultra HD (4K) on Windows 11. Earlier this year, Netflix updated its support page to include Google Chrome, a development that was brought to light by a user on X, known as saurax. Interestingly, there was no formal announcement from Google, likely to avoid drawing attention to the fact that its browser has only just acquired 4K support, nearly a decade after Microsoft’s Edge.
To enjoy Netflix in 4K on Chrome, users must ensure they are using version 117 or newer. Additionally, videos encoded in HEVC (H.265) may necessitate the installation of Microsoft’s HEVC Video Extensions on Windows for proper decoding. Other requirements include:
- A Netflix plan that supports Ultra HD (4K) viewing, with video playback quality set to Auto or High.
- A steady internet connection speed of 15 megabits per second or higher.
- A 4K 60Hz built-in screen, or a 4K 60Hz TV or external display with an HDCP 2.2 compatible connection.
- The latest updates installed on the Windows 11 operating system.
As it stands, Mozilla Firefox still does not support 4K Netflix, remaining limited to 1080p or Full HD. There is hope that it will eventually catch up, especially now that the world’s most popular browser has achieved this capability.
Moreover, this is not the only media feature where Google has been trailing behind Edge. Notably, Google Chrome still lacks support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Digital Plus codecs, which have been exclusive to Edge on Windows 11 and 10 since 2015.
